by Melissa Chichester
Even when the amount needed seems small, these nutrients still make a big impact on our health. Some of those nutrients are trace minerals, also known as elements. Trace minerals are needed in small amounts by the body but play integral roles in maintaining wellness. Zinc, copper, selenium, iron, and manganese are five trace minerals needed by the body.
Did you know that eight percent of the body’s zinc is stored in the skin and hair? Just 11 mg of zinc per day contributes to the following functions:
Pretty impressive, right? It is also worth noting that The National Institutes of Health concludes that vegetarians, breastfeeding mothers and breastfed children over seven months may require more zinc than others.
Copper is the third most abundant trace mineral in the body and is found in the bones, muscles, brain, and blood. Copper helps produce melanin, the pigment which gives skin and hair its color.* It also essential for the formation of collagen, which supports the body’s connective tissues.* Only 0.9 mg per day assists iron in the release of energy.*
Did you know that selenium is an integral part of thyroid hormone metabolism?* This essential trace mineral plays many roles in the body. With 55 mcg per day, selenium:
Selenium is naturally found in ground beef, sunflower seeds, chicken, cheddar cheese, and whole wheat.
Every living cell in the body requires iron, and for pregnant women, iron is even more important. The fetus requires approximately 375 milligrams of iron to create its blood and the mother needs an additional 600 milligrams of iron to maintain her own during pregnancy.
But it isn’t just pregnant women that need iron. In the body, iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues of the body.* Iron also works with enzymes involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.* Iron also plays a key role in energy metabolism and helps maintain energy utilization.*
Manganese is not readily stored in the body, which is why daily supplementation can be important. With just 2.3 mg per day, manganese can help a variety of functions in the body. It is needed for protein and carbohydrate production, and manganese helps promote protein formation for muscles and other vital internal systems.*
In addition, manganese nourishes the nerves and is an essential mineral that supports bone health.* Promote overall well-being with manganese!*
Puritan’s Pride carries many minerals for supplementation. Check out our selection of minerals today!
